Now it was the governor’s custom at the festival to release a prisoner chosen by the crowd.
Matthew 27:15 NIV
Matthew chapter 27 describes Pilate’s custom at the Passover festival. He traditionally released a prisoner. However, the crowd shockingly chose Barabbas, a known criminal, over Jesus, the Messiah. This dramatic event offers a profound lesson. Indeed, it helps us in understanding Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Furthermore, it reveals how human customs can lack a godly foundation.
Pilate’s custom truly lacked a proper godly mindset. He used it for appeasement, rather than for leading people toward righteousness. Moreover, Pilate was unfamiliar with the God of the Jews. Consequently, he established his own tradition. This custom tragically allowed criminals, who deserved punishment, to go free. It also permitted the innocent to suffer.
This flawed human custom facilitated a profound exchange. A notorious criminal gained freedom. Meanwhile, the innocent Jesus suffered crucifixion. In this pivotal event, Jesus not only took Barabbas’s place. He also willingly took the place of all sinners worldwide. Thus, this moment vividly demonstrates the core of understanding Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.
Jesus remained perfectly holy and completely without sin. Nevertheless, He went to the cross. There, He bore the sin of the entire world. The release of Barabbas alongside the crucifixion of the Lord Jesus vividly demonstrated this divine exchange. Moreover, it showcased God’s boundless love and mercy for humanity.
Living It Out
We are moved to praise God for His boundless goodness, mercy, and love. Christ, the Holy One, truly went to the cross so that sinners like us might find salvation. My gratitude for God’s sacrifice remains immeasurable. Jesus paid the insurmountable debt of sin which I could never repay. Therefore, my sins are washed away, enabling me to sing “Amazing Grace.”